*Chapter 1*

Naruto loves Sakura - there's no doubt about that. But, he was willing to dial back his own feelings and simply "be friends" with her to help improve the teamwork dynamic of Team 7. However, when even that effort is received poorly, he changes tactics entirely.

"I do still love her, believe it...but for the sake of our team becoming the absolute best ever, I'll back off and leave her alone."

Will it work? And with all the constant rejections she receives from Sasuke, will Sakura come to miss the pining of her knuckleheaded teammate?

***I don't own any part of Naruto! Masashi Kishimoto owns it all!***